“A good workman never blames his tools.”
We couldn’t agree more – but what happens when those tools go missing?
In workshops and garages across the UK, we often see declared cover that wouldn’t come close to replacing the tools of half a dozen mechanics. Tools are the lifeblood of your business – without them, work grinds to a halt. Insuring them is simple and affordable, yet theft remains one of the biggest risks for motor trade businesses.
Why? Because tools are portable, easy to sell, and almost impossible to trace once stolen.
Here are some practical tips to help you:
- Make sure you have enough cover
- Safeguard your tools as much as possible
- Ensure any claim is settled quickly and fairly with minimal disruption
Top tips for protecting your tools
These aren’t conditions – just helpful hints from years of experience:
- Include everything in your inventory
Your policy may refer to “portable hand tools” – this includes electric tools like drills and grinders. Make sure they’re listed. - Secure toolboxes to the building
Use heavy-duty chains and padlocks, and fix them to a solid wall or steel beam for maximum security. - Lock the toolbox
It sounds simple, but anything that slows down a thief helps. - Use vehicles as barriers
Park cars or vans to block access to toolboxes, making removal harder. - Keep invoices and receipts
Proof of ownership speeds up claims. If you don’t have receipts, start keeping them right now. - Take photos
Photograph each toolbox and its contents. Store images safely – they’re invaluable for claims. - Remember: boxes are covered too
Not just the contents. Factor this into your declared value. - Get help calculating replacement values
Your tool supplier can advise on current prices – and they’ll likely be the one replacing stolen tools. - Record specialist tools separately
Document details, photos, and values for anything unique or high-value. - Factor in “new for old” cover
Replacement costs today are higher than they were 10 years ago. Review your sums insured regularly.
What about employees’ tools?
We often hear: “They’re the mechanic’s own tools.”
That’s fine – but if they’re kept at your workshop, they’re unlikely to be insured elsewhere. And no, they won’t be covered under household insurance – especially if a toolbox and contents are worth £20,000 or more.
You can choose to cover only tools owned by your business, but consider the impact of a burglary where employees’ tools aren’t insured. How will they be replaced? What happens if staff can’t afford new ones? The knock-on effect on your business could be huge.
Why this matters
We know how vital tools are to your business. Losing them means downtime, lost revenue, and unhappy customers. At Howden Classic Motor Trade, we understand your risks and can help you:
- Arrange the right level of cover
- Review your sums insured
- Keep your business moving if the worst happens
For expert advice and a no-obligation review, call the Howden Classic Motor Trade team on 01252 888 546.